Ashley Graham Makes a Subtle Jab at the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show’s Lack of Curvy Models

Millennials And Gen Z Are Both Living In A Digital Age

Millennials grew up during a time when the digital age didn't exist, but we watched it unfold and change the way the world communicates. The internet launched in 1993 and connected people to each other in a way no one could've expected (via NPR).

I remember when MySpace, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, LTK, Snapchat, and more popular apps launched — literally started from the beginning. Growing during as the digital age became what we know it as today, I can confidently say that Millennials and Gen Z are still finding our footing with all of the technology — and constant connection — at our disposal.

We both watched as social media and the algorithm change the way we think. We saw the rise of content creators and heavy politicized messages filtered to us. We doom scrolled and curated and shared and liked and kept trying to find the balance that would finally feel just right.

We're all in this very online experience together at the end of the day.

Millennials And Gen Z Value Flexibility

Going from my 20sto my 30s has seriously made me realize the flexibility I crave as a Millennial. It seems like I was born to look at certain parts of traditional ideals and go, "That's not going to work for me." It's even more evident now that I'm older and have found that my approach to my career and family life doesn't completely match what I was taught. And it's not that different for Gen Z either — check it out!

Approach To Careers

Over 80% of both Millennials and Gen Z believe it's important to work somewhere that gives us a sense of purpose. According to Deloitte, both generations also value work/life balance that doesn't require us to pretend that we don't have a life or other obligations outside of our jobs.

As a mom, this was one of the biggest issues I faced because I realized how much society doesn't make room for working parents. The amount of times I heard a random stranger say, "Parents should plan for one person to be at home" as if that solves the problem is ridiculous.

Whether we have families to raise, hobbies to juggle, or anything in between, it's clear that Millennials and Gen Z crave balance in their careers.

Views Of The Nuclear Family

Speaking of motherhood, I like to think Millennials and Gen Z aren't so different when it comes to our perspective of the nuclear family. Studies via Pew Research Center show we're not as judgmental about single-parent homes than prior generations, and that only 44% of Millennials were married in 2019.

This idea that families are supposed to look a certain way in order to be legit is something Millennials and Gen Z continue to raise their eyebrows at — and even scoffed at — but not because we don't value family. We're just less likely to stress ourselves out believing we're failing or behind because we don't have or want the traditional nuclear family model. Both generations approach relationships and family on our own terms.

Millennials And Gen Z Gravitate Towards The Same Pop Culture

Did you know almost half of Millennials love listening to music in our spare time (via Spotify), while 43% of Gen Z loves to stream it (via EMarketer) as well? It seems like music still makes the world go around.

Besides that, Millennials and Gen Z are still the driving force behind what's considered in or out in pop culture. Gen Z is usually regarded as being tastemakers on TikTok, but reporting from Ad Newsshows that Millennials are "...2.3 times more likely to be the ones fueling this online content engine by posting videos and tagging brands."

Basically, we're both moving the pop culture needle forward, consuming and driving the trends across platforms! So remind me, how different are we again?

Millennials And Gen Z Value Diversity And Inclusivity

I grew up during a time where certain internal biases were stated as facts and it was always handful of weird pills to swallow. I couldn't understand why I'd hear "Love thy neighnor" in church only to watch some of the same people blatantly treat the LGBTQ+ community in hellish ways. We could talk about what's in the Bible all day long, but I've never been a fan of picking and choosing who's worthy of being treated with love and respect.

It's clear I'm not the only one who rejects those notions, though. First of all, more young adults are identifying as queer than ever. In 2022, 19.7% of Gen Z and 11.2% of Millennials identified as part of the LGBT community compared to 3.3% of Generation X and 2.7% of Baby Boomers (Gallup).

Outside of sexual identity, there's also the racial aspect of how accepting Millennials and Gen Z are. According to reporting from Built In, 48% of Gen Z are racially diverse, and Millennials are 19% more racially diverse than Baby Boomers. This leads me to believe that both generations know that the world doesn't look a singular way — and therefore respect and understand that diversity even more than previous generations.

These shared qualities and values are just another way that Gen Z and Millennials are more similar than they are different at the end of the day. But in the ways we are different — well both generations would know how to celebrate that diversity, now wouldn't they? 😉

Millennials And Gen Z Aren't Fans Of Injustice

Compared to prior generations, Millennials and Gen Z have found ways to speak out against injustice. Both generations believe that systemic racism is still an issue in society (via Forbes) with 92% of Gen Z willing to be a part of public protests (via Oliver Wyman Forum). Despite the higher number of Gen Z that are actively participating in protests, Millennials have changed their tune.

Social justice organization, Points of Light discovered that 50% more of Millennials believe in civic engagement now that we're living in a post-pandemic era, which isn't hard to believe. We're in the midst of a great political, racial, and social reckoning that's causing more younger people to speak up than before.

A part of me is keeping hope alive that this Millennials vs. Gen Z debate doesn't take away from all of the ways we can align to continue changing outdated ideals and policies. It seems like together, we can create a positive change in the world around us.

Torrid Floral Lace Strappy Bralette

This black number will make you feel like an absolute baddie. The strappy design highlights your top while still leaving something to be desired. Plus, it's wire-free, so you can embark on your Valentine's ventures with the utmost comfort.

Bluebella Catalina Bra

This sheer, lacy bra taps into floral motifs to bring on the romance!

Wild Lovers X Out From Under Sweetie Lace Underwire Bra

This light pink + magenta color palette is everything for V-Day! Make it a complete set with the matching thong.

Coquette Underwire Bra, Garter Belt & Thong Set

This 3-piece set is super affordable, but looks like pure luxury. If you've never experienced the sheer power of a garter belt, now's your chance!

Harper Wilde Bliss Scoop Bralette

Let the gals sit nicely with this ultra-comfy bra. The bust hugs your bod flawlessly, so you can focus on your self-love sesh or together time with your boo. This is an excellent everyday bra to sport once Valentine's szn is over, since it's very lightweight and sleek. We also adore the Harper Wilde Luxe Mesh Plunge Bra if you're shopping for a cheekier Valentine's Day lingerie piece!

Cacique Intimates Embroidered Lace-Up Bodysuit

Embrace your soft girl era this February with florals and frills! This bodysuit has it all, plus flaunts a sexy mesh feel and tiny bow details for added cuteness.

Intimately Heart To Heart Bralette + Bikini Undies + Garter

This Valentine's Day lingerie combo might be delicate, but it'll make you feel super powerful once you've slid into all three pieces. The light pink color is girly AF, allowing you to tap into your divine feminine this Feb 14th.

Out From Under Flora Embroidered Bustier

Hearts are super fitting for the holiday, but this bustier has small embroidered hearts *and* sweet lil' cherries?! We're obsessed. The demi cup neckline only adds to the delicate coquette vibe!

Oh La La Cheri Kinsley Underwire Lace Trim Sheer Chemise

Pair this see-through chemise with a cheeky G-string (or nothing at all 😉) to feel your absolute sexiest this V-Day. Your partner will be ready to play once they see you wearing it!

Fleur du Mal Queen of Hearts Balconette Bra + V-String + Garter Belt

Shopping for heart-covered lingerie? We got you! This trio is just the thing you should rock this Valentine's Day if you wanna go the more revealing route.

Out From Under Budapest Love High Sheer Lace Undie

These lace-covered panties are a great piece of Valentine's Day lingerie that you can *also* wear for sexy sessions all year long! The silhouette is fairly modest, but the cutout in the back is truly what makes this pair flirty enough for the holiday.

Savage x Fenty Baroque Bondage Unlined Balconette Bra + Panty

Okay, this lingerie set is giving burlesque dancer, and we love it. Tap into your most sultry self by donning a black get-up like this lacy, fishnet-clad look.

For Love & Lemons Cordelia Slip Dress

If managing multiple pieces of Valentine's Day lingerie sounds a little too high-maintenance for your liking, a slip dress is what you need. They're usually super silky like this fiery red one is, only upping your comfort levels as you navigate the bedroom (or wherever else you like to get it on 😏)!

Out From Under Cherie Sheer Lace Babydoll Cami

This sexy top can double as some seriously girly nightwear once V-Day passes. Self-care has never looked cuter!

Cacique Intimates Lace-Trim Lightly Lined Balconette Bra + Panty

This has got to be our fave Valentine's Day lingerie set so far. The bra + panties feature some red-hot strap adjusters that'll guide you toward the perfect fit around your shoulders and hips. Not to mention those darling bows!

Victoria's Secret Rosebud Embroidery Unlined Corset Babydoll Set

The only thing better than receiving flowers for Valentine's is wearing them! This baby pink set boasts a bountiful bloom around the bust that'll leave your partner looking all night long. 👀​

Harper Wilde Luxe Mesh Thong

This thong flaunts a uniquely thick upper band that won't cut into you. This is a truly practical lingerie pick that infuses sexy vibes whether you're wearing in the day-to-day or exclusively for Valentine's.

Adore Me Ivana Unlined Bodysuit

With this bodysuit that ties up in a bow, you'll be the real gift this V-Day.

Playful Promises Eddie Crossover Thong

This bold, layered panty has something new to explore with every turn. Between the cutie crossing panels and the visible pieces of hardware, it still does a seamless job at supporting you in every position. 😋

Anthropologie Giselle Lace Bustier

We adore the fact that you can easily take this bustier from the bedroom to the streets – there's enough coverage for everyday wear (especially under a sweater or denim jacket), but when it comes to cozy time, this piece will look iconic with some matching undies.

Intimately Lady Lux Bodysuit

This sheer bodysuit will turn the heat up for sure. Wear it with absolutely nothing for an unforgettable piece of Valentine's Day lingerie.

Gooseberry Intimates Wildflower Bra + Thong

This bra + thong pairing doesn't shy away from color, as it features an array of embroidered floral blooms along all sides.

Torrid French Hearts 3 Piece Cup Babydoll Slip

It's not Valentine's Day lingerie if there's no hearts involved! That's why this black + pink slip is the perfect 'add to cart.'

Intimately Lacey Essential Cami

This cami top is adorned in lovely lace that amps up its feminine air. For a cozy Valentine's Day lingerie ensemble, wear this design with matching panties or boyshorts that invite a lazy day in bed.

Kilo Brava Embroidered Mesh Underwire Teddy

The boning in this bodysuit work to sculpt your figure, drawing in the waist for a sensual feel. The lace design feels super Victorian, adding a dash of romance into your V-day (and beyond)! ❤️​

So let’s start from the beginning. Paris Geller (played by Liza Weil) joined the GG crew in Season 1, right as Rory Gilmore (the show’s sort-of protagonist) walked into Chilton Academy, a private school where Paris was attending, for her first day. A far cry from Rory’s relatively timid and soft-spoken personality, Paris tore up the screen with her high-strung personality and immediate rivalry with Rory (Rory did not feel the same), who Paris viewed as the only candidate who could possibly challenge her spot at the top of the class standing. As the year progresses, the two become friends, which of course Paris still highly questioned.

The rest of their high school experience is plagued with repeated ups and downs, from Paris’s parents’ highly publicized divorce to their joint student government campaign and, most notably, Paris’s C-SPAN meltdown, courtesy of a Harvard rejection fueled by what she can only assume to be wide-spread knowledge that she lost her virginity. Despite losing the Valedictorian slot to Rory (which Paris comes to terms with after finding out Salutatorians tend to be more successful), Paris walks across the graduation stage and accepts her diploma from the school’s headmaster, to which she iconically quips, “no hard feelings.”

Fast forward to Paris’s first year at Yale, a school she knew Rory was attending but had no intention of ever seeing again. Not to the surprise of Paris’s life coach, the two frenemies were placed together as suitemates, a pairing that ultimately served as a catalyst for lifelong friendship. Throughout college, Paris pursues pre-med and pre-law degrees, joins the Yale Daily News alongside Rory, dates an elderly professor (he passes away, leaving Paris to grieve), moves on with the editor of the Yale Daily News, Doyle McMaster, and potentially saves Rory from abandoning Yale forever by admitting to Lorelai that Rory is the only person who ever listened to her, challenged her and motivated her.

Paris then proceeds to become the editor of the Yale Daily News, a position in which her power-hungry tendencies took full-force, resulting in a forcible resignation, kick Rory out of their shared apartment, let Rory move back into their shared apartment (now with Doyle), be accepted to a slew of prestigious medical and law schools. She ultimately chose to attend med school and break up with Doyle, to which he refused, and tells Rory that they’re on their own but she can still do great things (Of course this doesn’t last, the two are meant to be best friends.)

Somehow this doesn't even scratch the surface of the character of Paris. As you can tell, Paris is a fiercely loyal, protective woman who fights for herself to no end. She (literally) doesn’t care what other people think (so long as they’re not within her immediate circle) and never stops pursuing her dreams, no matter how many times she probably should have. She is the epitome of feminism in modern television — perhaps taken to an extreme — and serves as a necessary counterweight to Rory’s floundering sense of self.

So long as she keeps her need for perfectionism in check, Paris has one of those few personality types whose wild ambition and outspokenness is directly beneficial to her success, a success that she, and only she, can define. Sure, she has an exaggerated sense of self-importance, but when balanced by Rory’s soft-but-straightforward approach, Paris can quickly reset, reevaluate and move forward.

That's the thing with Paris — she’s always moving forward. She doesn't get into Harvard? Tough. She takes a few days to wallow before considering her other options: Yale, Columbia and Princeton. She doesn’t know whether to choose med school or law school, so she takes stock of her bearings, reflects on her past dreams, and makes a clear, concise decision that she moves forward with.

Her brutally honest nature (both internally and externally) is exactly why Paris works. She’s generous when needed, comfortable with giving tough (and oftentimes tougher) love, is able to express vulnerability with the people she loves, doesn’t allow outside influences to affect her path and never let’s someone (especially a man) tell her she’s less than (*cough, cough*—Rory). For an early 2000s show, she showed women that there is power in education. There’s power in stepping away from a caretaker role. There’s power in expressing your opinion, no matter your age.

There’s no doubt in my mind that she’s inspired countless women over the years — after all, she’s inspired me! Even though she’s had her controversial moments, she’s always been a cheering voice for women, even if it’s behind her resting grimace. For these reasons, and so many more, I am hereby deeming Paris Geller the best of Gilmore Girls — the heroine, perhaps, and a feminist icon to all.